The best farm stays near Darlington

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Surrounded by protected landscapes and boasting a pretty town centre plus plenty of natural reserves of its own, Darlington is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in northern England. Whether you’re after quiet countryside camping or active adventure in one of England’s most iconic landscapes, you have options, with the Pennine Chain, North York Moors, and Northumberland National Park all within easy reach of the city. The region’s holiday parks are great for kicking back with the kids, while frill-free field camps and luxury glampsites let you soak up the great outdoors in your own way. Stargazers should keep an eye out for the many Dark Sky Sites scattered throughout the region.

96% (130) 268 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington

Secret Wood Glamping

1. Secret Wood Glamping

95%
(21)
139km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Moss Rose Campsite

2. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
110km from Darlington · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Burrs Manor Wild Camping

3. Burrs Manor Wild Camping

87%
(152)
145km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping in the Peak District National Park, near Buxton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Peak District Edge Farm Camping

4. Peak District Edge Farm Camping

139km from Darlington · 5 units · Tents
Off-Grid Farm Camping on the Edge of the Peak District Our peaceful 9-acre camping field is set on a working farm, surrounded by fields and woodland, with lovely countryside views over the village of Holmesfield. Located right on the edge of the Peak District in Derbyshire, this is an ideal base for walkers, hikers, and nature lovers, with public footpaths leading directly from the farm. We are just a short drive from Chatsworth House and the market town of Bakewell, and within walking distance of a welcoming village pub serving good food. The pub is dog friendly, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on site. This is a simple, back-to-basics, off-grid camping experience, perfect for families, groups of friends, and those looking for peaceful countryside camping. Facilities include: Eco toilet Small shared camp kitchen with gas stove and sink Basic cutlery, plates, cups, knives and forks provided No electricity on site Important information: No tents provided Please take all rubbish home Access is via a stony farm track which can be bumpy and muddy In wet weather, vehicles may not be able to access the track Alternative parking is available, with a 5-minute walk to the campsite This is relaxed farm camping in a quiet rural setting—ideal for exploring the Peak District, enjoying local walks, and unwinding in nature. Check-in is between 1:00pm and 6:00pm. We will meet you on arrival to check you in and show you to the camping field. Please ensure you arrive within these times so we can welcome you properly.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£13
 / night
Chapel View Wild Campsite

5. Chapel View Wild Campsite

97%
(31)
133km from Darlington · 3 units · Tents
A remote campsite for Hikers and Wild Campers Sittng on the Penine Bridleway on the foothills of Kinder above Chapel-en-le-Frith, offering beautiful views across the valley and being within immediate reach of some of the most popular walking trails in the UK. The campsite is in shadow of South Head and is directly on the Penine Bridleway less than 2 miles from Jacobs Ladder, the Penine Way and Kinder Low. You can break camp in the morning already in the heart of hiking country and return to your camp in the evening without ever leaving the remote wilderness of the national park.
Pets
Campfires
from 
£5
 / night
Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

6. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%
(60)
119km from Darlington · 40 units · Glamping
Lakeside rural tranquility and the 'kiss-me-quick' fun of the seaside – you can have the best of both worlds at Stanley Villa Farm's cute camping pods
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£60
 / night
Wold Farm Caravan and Camping Site

7. Wold Farm Caravan and Camping Site

100%
(9)
102km from Darlington · 4 units · Motorhomes
A cliff-top, Yorkshire paradise for bird lovers
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
£29
 / night
Moss Side Farm Campsite

8. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(131)
109km from Darlington · 33 units · Tents
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

9. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(149)
115km from Darlington · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£25
 / night
Harebeck Holidays

10. Harebeck Holidays

85%
(23)
122km from Darlington · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Hazel Mount Fellside

11. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%
(49)
114km from Darlington · 5 units · Tents
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
Ravensdale Glamping Retreats

12. Ravensdale Glamping Retreats

100%
(3)
56km from Darlington · 4 units · Glamping
Discover a unique short getaway with just two or three days to spare! Enjoy your own private hot tub or outdoor bath, a BBQ, and a spacious patio—all included! Our glamping pods offer the perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic weekend or families wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. Nestled on a charming old dairy farm and overlooking a tranquil pond, our beautifully designed, luxurious, and fully-equipped pods provide an ideal base for exploring the picturesque surroundings. A brand-new pod was added Summer 2025 bringing the total pods to just four! Located near the historic city of York, Castle Howard, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and shopping destinations, there's something for everyone. Celebrate special occasions in style with our exclusive packages. Ravensdale Glamping Retreats is the perfect spot to create lasting memories with loved ones. Plus, our dog-friendly pods mean your furry friends can join in the adventure too!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£150
 / night
Crowdy Hall

13. Crowdy Hall

100%
(2)
12km from Darlington · 1 unit · Glamping
Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£109
 / night
Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

14. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%
(61)
59km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Camping in Nidderdale with excellent facilities, dogs and campfires welcome, and views over Thruscross Reservoir.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

15. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£90
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

16. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
100km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Howbeck Lodge

17. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
97km from Darlington · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
from 
£30
 / night
White Peak Camping

18. White Peak Camping

99%
(465)
144km from Darlington · 18 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Camping on a Peak District farm near the Monsal Trail
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£13
 / night
Butt Farm, Beverley

19. Butt Farm, Beverley

100%
(189)
107km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A family-friendly campsite on a working East Yorkshire Farm just outside the market town of Beverley
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Woodman's Huts

20. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£115
 / night

Surrounded by protected landscapes and boasting a pretty town centre plus plenty of natural reserves of its own, Darlington is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in northern England. Whether you’re after quiet countryside camping or active adventure in one of England’s most iconic landscapes, you have options, with the Pennine Chain, North York Moors, and Northumberland National Park all within easy reach of the city. The region’s holiday parks are great for kicking back with the kids, while frill-free field camps and luxury glampsites let you soak up the great outdoors in your own way. Stargazers should keep an eye out for the many Dark Sky Sites scattered throughout the region.

96% (130) 268 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington

Secret Wood Glamping

1. Secret Wood Glamping

95%
(21)
139km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Moss Rose Campsite

2. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
110km from Darlington · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Burrs Manor Wild Camping

3. Burrs Manor Wild Camping

87%
(152)
145km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping in the Peak District National Park, near Buxton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Peak District Edge Farm Camping

4. Peak District Edge Farm Camping

139km from Darlington · 5 units · Tents
Off-Grid Farm Camping on the Edge of the Peak District Our peaceful 9-acre camping field is set on a working farm, surrounded by fields and woodland, with lovely countryside views over the village of Holmesfield. Located right on the edge of the Peak District in Derbyshire, this is an ideal base for walkers, hikers, and nature lovers, with public footpaths leading directly from the farm. We are just a short drive from Chatsworth House and the market town of Bakewell, and within walking distance of a welcoming village pub serving good food. The pub is dog friendly, and well-behaved dogs are welcome on site. This is a simple, back-to-basics, off-grid camping experience, perfect for families, groups of friends, and those looking for peaceful countryside camping. Facilities include: Eco toilet Small shared camp kitchen with gas stove and sink Basic cutlery, plates, cups, knives and forks provided No electricity on site Important information: No tents provided Please take all rubbish home Access is via a stony farm track which can be bumpy and muddy In wet weather, vehicles may not be able to access the track Alternative parking is available, with a 5-minute walk to the campsite This is relaxed farm camping in a quiet rural setting—ideal for exploring the Peak District, enjoying local walks, and unwinding in nature. Check-in is between 1:00pm and 6:00pm. We will meet you on arrival to check you in and show you to the camping field. Please ensure you arrive within these times so we can welcome you properly.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£13
 / night
Chapel View Wild Campsite

5. Chapel View Wild Campsite

97%
(31)
133km from Darlington · 3 units · Tents
A remote campsite for Hikers and Wild Campers Sittng on the Penine Bridleway on the foothills of Kinder above Chapel-en-le-Frith, offering beautiful views across the valley and being within immediate reach of some of the most popular walking trails in the UK. The campsite is in shadow of South Head and is directly on the Penine Bridleway less than 2 miles from Jacobs Ladder, the Penine Way and Kinder Low. You can break camp in the morning already in the heart of hiking country and return to your camp in the evening without ever leaving the remote wilderness of the national park.
Pets
Campfires
from 
£5
 / night
Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

6. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%
(60)
119km from Darlington · 40 units · Glamping
Lakeside rural tranquility and the 'kiss-me-quick' fun of the seaside – you can have the best of both worlds at Stanley Villa Farm's cute camping pods
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£60
 / night
Wold Farm Caravan and Camping Site

7. Wold Farm Caravan and Camping Site

100%
(9)
102km from Darlington · 4 units · Motorhomes
A cliff-top, Yorkshire paradise for bird lovers
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
£29
 / night
Moss Side Farm Campsite

8. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(131)
109km from Darlington · 33 units · Tents
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

9. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(149)
115km from Darlington · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£25
 / night
Harebeck Holidays

10. Harebeck Holidays

85%
(23)
122km from Darlington · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Hazel Mount Fellside

11. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%
(49)
114km from Darlington · 5 units · Tents
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
Ravensdale Glamping Retreats

12. Ravensdale Glamping Retreats

100%
(3)
56km from Darlington · 4 units · Glamping
Discover a unique short getaway with just two or three days to spare! Enjoy your own private hot tub or outdoor bath, a BBQ, and a spacious patio—all included! Our glamping pods offer the perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic weekend or families wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. Nestled on a charming old dairy farm and overlooking a tranquil pond, our beautifully designed, luxurious, and fully-equipped pods provide an ideal base for exploring the picturesque surroundings. A brand-new pod was added Summer 2025 bringing the total pods to just four! Located near the historic city of York, Castle Howard, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and shopping destinations, there's something for everyone. Celebrate special occasions in style with our exclusive packages. Ravensdale Glamping Retreats is the perfect spot to create lasting memories with loved ones. Plus, our dog-friendly pods mean your furry friends can join in the adventure too!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£150
 / night
Crowdy Hall

13. Crowdy Hall

100%
(2)
12km from Darlington · 1 unit · Glamping
Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£109
 / night
Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

14. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%
(61)
59km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Camping in Nidderdale with excellent facilities, dogs and campfires welcome, and views over Thruscross Reservoir.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£12
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

15. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£90
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

16. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
100km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Howbeck Lodge

17. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
97km from Darlington · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
from 
£30
 / night
White Peak Camping

18. White Peak Camping

99%
(465)
144km from Darlington · 18 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Camping on a Peak District farm near the Monsal Trail
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£13
 / night
Butt Farm, Beverley

19. Butt Farm, Beverley

100%
(189)
107km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A family-friendly campsite on a working East Yorkshire Farm just outside the market town of Beverley
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Woodman's Huts

20. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£115
 / night

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The best farm stays near Darlington guide

Where to go

Around Darlington

On the eastern leg of the Teesdale Way, Darlington is a convenient stop off for hikers and bikers, with country parks, nature reserves, and a community woodland providing plenty for outdoor enthusiasts within the city’s reaches. Campgrounds and caravan parks can be found in the Darlington countryside, along with working farms providing back-to-basics experiences.

North York Moors National Park

Just under an hour’s drive from Darlington, the North York Moors boast dramatic coastline and vast moorland, plus family-friendly holiday parks and farm sites aplenty. The Cleveland Way National Trail cuts a scenic route through the park’s diverse landscapes, making it a destination for ramblers and riders.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

Only 15 miles (25 kilometres) from Darlington, the market town of Richmond offers a gateway into one of England’s most famous landscapes. No-frill farm sites, hilltop campgrounds, and glamping pods provide accommodation options for all types of adventurer, while the region’s caves, cascades, and gorges—including Cautley Spout, England's highest above-ground waterfall—are a playground for watersports enthusiasts.

North Pennines AONB

Also on the Pennine Way, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just north of the Yorkshire Dales draws adventurers with its day-time and night-time offerings, including the impressive High Force waterfall and several Dark Sky Sites. Wild-style camping is popular here, while Eden Valley to the west hosts several working farm campgrounds.

Northumberland National Park

At the northern border of England, around 40 miles (65 kilometres) from Darlington, this vast landscape is best known for its secluded campgrounds, low crowds, and abundance of flora and fauna. Adventurers can follow Hadrian’s Wall, hike the remote Otterburn Ranges, or ride across the rolling Cheviot Hills, looking out for native wild goats, red squirrels, and all manner of birdlife along the way.

When to go

Not all campgrounds remain open during the winter season and the relative seclusion of the region means off-season scheduling isn’t necessary to beat the crowds. Plus, off-road trails are generally more accessible from spring to early autumn, before the icy northern frost settles.

Know before you go

  • Darlington is two hours from Edinburgh and two-and-a-half hours from London via train.
  • Several towns around the national parks or AONBs are connected to Darlington via bus or train, though it can be more convenient and quicker to bring your own vehicle.
  • Some sites hire out camping gear. Otherwise, branches of camping specialists Trespass and Millets can be found in Darlington’s city centre.
  • Not all sites allow walk-ins, so check or book ahead of time.